Feliz Diez y Seis! Let's Eat

Diez y Seis de Septiembre -- today, September 16 -- is one of Mexico's most important national holidays, or fiesta patrias. The grito de Dolores was issued this day in 1810 near Guanajuato by Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. The grito was a call to arms for the end of Spanish rule in Mexico, much like the signing of our own Declaration of Independence, celebrated each year on July 4. In 1825, the newly independent Mexico declared September 16 its very own Independence Day (not Cinco de Mayo, as some misguided souls still believe).

But much like Cinco de Mayo, Diez y Seis isn't only celebrated in Mexico. The holiday has been celebrated for nearly 200 years in Texas cities like San Antonio and Goliad. Houston has widely celebrated Diez y Seis since the 1920s, when our city became large enough to require a Mexican consulate and the Mexican population began increasing exponentially.

Although some large fiestas patrias celebrations have already taken place to celebrate Mexican Independence Day, there are still a few planned for tonight and this weekend. Here's your rundown.

Tonight at Hugo's, Montrose's best Mexican restaurant will be celebrating with a traditional buffet from 5 to 10 p.m. Prices are $35 for adults and $10 for children, so bring the little ones too. The holiday's signature dish, chiles en nogada, will be one of the many items offered. Starting at 6 p.m., folklorico dancers will entertain while you nosh on nogadas.

If you can't make it out tonight, don't fret. A day-long celebration will be held at Sam Houston Race Park this Sunday, September 19, with free entrance for everyone. Mexican culture and cuisine will be out in full force. Stick around and enjoy the music from groups like Los Traileros del Norte, Tierra Cali and La Firma while you disfrutar your comida.